Hey thanks for checking out these awesome dual sport bikes with me today! If you saw anything in the video you'd like to know more about, here are some affiliate links for all my parts & gear! (Click an affiliate link, make ANY purchase, & support the channel!) KLR 650 Stuff Camel ADV 1 Finger Clutch Mod: camel-adv.com/?ref=eOBjZXsn Racks & Bags: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-pannier-racks-with-tusk-pilot-pannier-bags-and-bottle-holders-p?ref=1042& Crash Bars Uppers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-crash-bars-engine-guards-p?ref=1042& Lowers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-lower-crash-bars-p?ref=1042& Nilight Lights (not DOT approved): amzn.to/3XDFdmC LED Brackets: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-bar-accessory-clamp-p?ref=1042& KTM High Bend Bars: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042& Fat Bar Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-universal-big-bar-clamp-kit-p?ref=1042& Lexx Pipe (may not comply with local laws & regulations): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/lexx-mxe-slip-on-silencer-with-mid-pipe-p?ref=1042& Tusk Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042& Tail Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-dry-duffel-bag-p?ref=1042& 2018 Kawasaki KX450F Fender: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/acerbis-front-fender-p?ref=1042& Drain Plug: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-low-profile-magnetic-drain-bolt-p?ref=1042& XR650 Stuff Carplay Unit: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-wireless-portable-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo?ref=pcoxoocl Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-waypoint-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& 14 Tooth Sprocket: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/primary-drive-front-sprocket-upgrade-p?ref=1042& Large Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042& Chub Bars (Moto Bend): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042& Bar Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-universal-big-bar-clamp-kit-p?ref=1042& Handguards: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-d-flex-pro-adventure-handguards-p?ref=1042& Tusk LED Bulb (NOT DOT APPROVED): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-h4-led-bulb-p?ref=1042& DR650 Stuff Windshield & GPS Bar (1 1/8" Handlebars): amzn.to/3Tkd1WS Windshield & GPS Bar (7/8 Handlebars): amzn.to/3z010yT Carpuride W702 Pro Version: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-pro-wireless-portable-upgraded-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo-with-intercom-function-compass-barometer?ref=pcoxoocl Large Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042& Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-dsport%C2%AE-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042& Chub Bars (KTM Bend): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042& Rox Offset Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/rox-speed-fx-pro-offset-elite-block-risers-p?ref=1042& Handguards: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-d-flex-pro-adventure-handguards-p?ref=1042& Seat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/seat-concepts-complete-seat-p?ref=1042& Ultralight Battery: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-lithium-pro-battery-p?ref=1042& 14 Tooth Sprocket: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/primary-drive-front-sprocket-p?v=15214?ref=1042& Linkage Guard: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-impact-universal-linkage-guard-p?ref=1042& Tusk LED Bulb (NOT DOT APPROVED): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-h4-led-bulb-p?ref=1042& Riding Gear ADV Helmet: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xpedition-adv-helmet-w-mips-p?ref=1042& Xplorer Coat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xplorer-adv-jacket-p?ref=1042& Xplorer Pants: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xplorer-adv-pant-p?ref=1042& Gloves: Boots: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-adventure-boots-p?ref=1042&
I really like your style, Ben. It was nice seeing you review the great points of the KLR, just like the old days. You really get the KLR-the one-up and two-up comfort, the range, the looks, the reliability, the luggage capacity, and its ok off road ability. I also love the transmission and the fuel delivery. Really, only the weight gets me down so I don't ride it on trails I think I might fall down on. I am considering lowering it, though. I know, that's anathema to a trail rider but I do dirt and rocky roads, mostly, and I don't think it will negatively affect that riding much. Best wishes.
Same. And if one is having a TH-cam channel as a primary source of income, one should probably target a bigger audience. There is an army of KLR nuts. That being said, love the DR content but don’t watch all - when I see KLR? I click Ymmv
Nice! I have owned all your bikes in your stable during my 50yrs of riding enduro's. With the exception of the T7. I recently spent some time on a Honda CRF450RL and within a short period of time I knew this is the bike I have been searching for. It is my unicorn. I will most always have a klr in the garage, but that Honda is something special.
If you only have one bike…and enjoy mild off-roading/backroads but almost never ride single track, dangerously technical trails, but would also hop on the thing and ride it across the country, there’s only one affordable choice for you. The KLR 650.
Hard to go wrong with any of these bikes. I've had a KLR, Versys 300x, Tenere, and others. I currently own a DR and the new Himalayan. All of these bikes were/are great for me except the Tenere (just not the bike for my riding style). I really liked the 300x, great wind protection. But low ground clearance that a bash plate helped remedy. You gave good advice when you said go out and ride each one. What feels good to you is what counts. Get out and ride - so true!!!
One thing that doesn’t get mentioned often is 2-up. My wife preferred my klr650 over my T7, dr650, versys 650, and vstrom 650. My guess is because the seat was wide, there was good length between my backside and the back of the seat so she wasn’t cramped against me and the seat was flat and parallel to the ground so she wasn’t sliding forward into me like on the t7. Heck the only bike she liked more than the KLR was my victory cross country. It helps we are both smaller I guess so that won’t apply to everyone but whatever the reason is, she says it’s the most comfortable adv/dualsport bike for her so Kawasaki did something right getting passenger ergonomics right
Great info there, thank you! We never rode anything other than my KLR (and mostly sport bikes before then) but my wife also liked my KLR and it seemed to work well for us!
Because of you, TDubs kid and a couple others, I purchased my first street legal bike about 6 months ago - a 2024 TW200, which was intended to be a bike for me and the kids to rip around our yard and for me to run small errands around our semi-rural town. I now find myself riding further away from my house than originally intended. I already have an urge for a larger bike, while keeping the TW of course. Looking at a KLR650s, Kawasaki Verseys or a Honda Transalp. I’m really leaning towards the later two because I like the excitement of a dual cylinder but I keep coming back to the KLR because if it’s rock solid reputation. I don’t plan on off-roading, other than on our property as I have a side x side and four wheeler for that hobby. Decisions, decisions…
My gen 1 is 416 wet, but feels like 816 when picking it up or pushing it around in the garage. Still, there is something about the way she looks at me.
All great reliable tried and true fun bikes! Nothing is perfect. All shining in different areas. Looking forward to seeing what time tells for the KOVE 450, 450 MT, and DRZ 4S! Safe riding!
I've owned both an XR 650 and 3 Klr 650s. I currently own a gen 3 KLR. No doubt the XR is a better dirt bike. But as an ADV bike it falls way short. Of course you can add a bunch of mods, spend a bunch of dollars and make it better for traveling but I took the other fork in the road. I modified the KLR, to work better in the dirt because it's such a comfortable all day kind of ride. Mods include fork and shock upgrades as well as pipe, snorkel and ecu mods. Now it handles good, power delivery is better. It is still not as good off road as the XR or DR, but I can strap on enough camping gear for a two week tour to where ever, ride down unimproved dirt roads, ( heart in throat) and arrive at the camp site with beer and a cooler. Can't to that on either the XR or DR. Spend two weeks camping off of either of those and you'll be looking to take an add for sale out on Craigs List. Don't get me wrong I love to ride off road over rocks, sand, mud,v up crazy hills and scare myself while grinning all the while. But that's a job for my WR450, no way I'd want either the XR or DR for serious off road. Just sayin...
He is trying for an all in one perfect bike and you won't get that from any bike. These bikes fit in between the goldwing and the dirt bike that have knobby tires. Each one leaning to one side or the other.
@ I’ve owned 2 Gen 1 KLRs 2 Gen 2 KLR’s a XR650L a DR650 and a V Strom 650 in search of the perfect low dollar ADV bike and there really is no such thing. Out of all them I think the closest to it was the Gen 1 KLR. Especially after I added the Waypoint Rally Fairing. The most fun was definitely the XR650 though. How Ben still has the stock tank on the XR is beyond me though lol. My next bike will be the Gen 3 KLR just for the sake of saying I had all 3 generations.
Great video, Anyone that has owned a KLR knows exactly what you're talking about. I bought my Gen. 1 2005 2 weeks before I did a Mexico trip down to Belize and back to Tampa round-trip solo On a learner's permit. 20 years later I would do it again in a heartbeat on a KLR!
Asa past gen3 klr I would totally recommend a klr gen1 or gen2. Ended up trading it for a souped up Himalayan 411 and totally enjoyed that bike. I was a new rider so didn't care about or really need the power. Just recently I traded in the 411 for a Bear 650 and I am totally enjoying the new bike. The gen3 klr is a fine bike but there is so much more out there now.
I bought my KLR as an all around bike- one I could ride anywhere at any time. I could mod it to my preference and enjoy the open road and the gravel road as well. After a while I found myself riding on the highway more that the gravel roads so I decided to get a luxury highway cruiser . Comfort and power over long distances. Now as I look at the KLR I look at is as a dirt bike. However, the KLR isn’t a dirt bike. So I’m thinking of getting a smaller ( lighter) dirt bike to fill that need. So as I still watch your channel the XR is probably where I’m heading. With my Goldwing for the highway and the XR for off-road I’ll have the best of both worlds. Maybe get a larger tank or a rear desert tank to provide the distance needed.
For the DR, instead of a rally tower, you could install the acerbis 6.6 gallon tank and a tall madstad screen. You’d not feel much at all top or bottom at speed. I’m currently using the 5.3 tank with a madstad. It feels like an ultralight ADV the way it’s currently setup. 2022 dr650”
Hello Ben from your neighbor state!!! I like the point you brought up about the klr and weight. After owning an 08 ktm xc300 and an 08 wr250r (still have the wr) along with my klr, I actually prefer the klr along with all of the mods I've done. The klr seems more planted to me even offroad, and i can actually manage the weight pretty well. Ride safe, and stay swanky!!
I did the dark smoke screen last year after seeing yours on your old bike and man is that boy dark! It makes the night commutes sketchy, especially since I’ve luckily dodged two deer narrowly
" it's not the bike, it's the rider" basically anyone can be happy with any bike if they develop the skills, but you have your channel to consider and just one bike will never be enough to continue growing.
I am a bit sad I didn't go with a beautiful Gen2 Yellow/Orange one I was drawn to, but then the Himalayan 450 arrived at a great price. The F800gs was also a strong contender, but good ones sold quick. However, I did keep my KLX400r for the bush, which I have upgrade plans for, suspension, tank, seat having already done most of the minor running gear. Love it's lowdown grunt & get up n go. Cheers from Downunder, stay safe.
When you add a luggage rack to your XR, you will notice the additional weight fairly quickly. I have the Tusk pannier rack (with top rack and sub-frame supports) and the whole kit is fairly hefty. It is solid and crazy strong - but hefty. The rack does provide excellent lift-handles to help pick the bike up. However, for me, the single most important advantage I have with the pannier rack system is the Rotopax fuel cell mounting system I fabricated. I now have a 1gal rotopax cell on each side of my bike (so 2 gallons) plus the 4.7gal Clarke main tank for a total of 6.7 gallons. I haven't tested the range, but it is confidence inspiring when I've wanted to explore a bit more. With a 14T front sprocket and my personal heft, fuel economy is not maximized so I had to create a solution.
You won't get the best of both worlds from any one bike. The KLR has the looks of off road with limited abilities in that arena and not quit the Goldwing of the road either. The XR is not a pure breed dirt bike but does well enough in what I call the mid range of off roading and is just enough on the road to get you to your off road adventure. You have to pick your bike with those in mind and what they are better suited for, either more road worthy or off roading. They have their place in the market.
If you liked the wind protection of the gen 3, you would have loved the vstream windshield. Best 100 bucks I ever spent. I was able to move the mounts back to the low setting, and can ride 55 without my helmet face shield down. Now I can hear my earbuds.
I think the problem is the grass is always greener and everything is a compromise so you have to decide what works best for you. Its really hard. I keep going back snd forth from adventure bikes to dual sports because i like the aspects of both. Probably the best bike for me is my T7 i currently have but thst foesnt stop me from lusting for other bikes. Once this small adv segment really gets going I can see leaving thr T7 for something a little less heavy and less powerful so that when im alone i dont have to worry about having issues with a big heavy bike. The dr and xr are definitely unicorns in that respect. Good power and good offroad ability. I do miss my dr650. I think a good modern alternative is the Himalayan 450. If you take off all of the extras it comes with (crash bars, center stand, etc) its getting close to 400lbs which i think is roughly the sweet spot for a smaller adv with 40-50hp. Im still hoping for a mini tenere, maybe 500cc single cylinder.
Yeah, there's always give and take when it comes to switching any bike, but especially from dual sport to adv. As nice as one is for one reason, the other is just as nice for another haha. The new lightweight ADVs may help with some of that though!
This is me in a nutshell. I’m always wanting to try the bike that’s not in my carport! I want to look at the T7, vstrom 800, etc…. I told my stepson that is the biggest indicator of bike addiction.
I think the decision on the KLR vs the 650 dual sports is all about the riding you intend to do and enjoy. Kawasaki may call the KLR a dual sport, but I think it is really an adventure bike. It is better at eating highway miles and is great on dirt/gravel roads. But, on the single tracks you enjoy it is not so great. (I should have waited until the end to make this comment.)
Guess you completely summed it all up in this video in regards to which bike a person should choose when considering one for their personal riding preferences. FYI, I would be happy to fly up and drive one home for safe keeping for you if you need to make some extra space in your garage for another project. I already have my own 650L but like jewelry to women, men can never have enough motorcycles, right?
I just graduated up to a ‘24 KLR from a CT125 and a Suzuki RV200. I am loving my KLR experience so far. I do hate perceivable oil loss on any four stroke machine, but I knew about that issue entering into the KLR. Just wondering, do the DR’s and XR’s have the same issue? I do know every engine burns oil, but to what extent I guess is the question.
I think the first thing a person needs to consider is their first priority. You only have 1-1.2 hours drive to get to your playground (s) … me I travel out of Florida and my playground starts in Wyoming/Montana . Can you imagine taking your XR (as you have it built) vs. the KLR out for 2-3 months of travel? My biggest wish is 6th gear and tubeless tires …
After riding a carburetor on the gen 2 then going to the Yamaha super tenere fuel injected bike I ride today it would be hard for me to go to a carburetor bike on a motorcycle. I know my bike is 600lbs and I give up so much . I am currently looking for something else with half the weight.
I can’t not have a KLR. It’s comfort, the huge fuel range and ability to hit some dirt anywhere is too good. I keep a 500 EXC for when I need to hit some jumps, do long wheelies, and go on deep singletrack.
" it's not the bike, it's the rider" basically anyone can be happy with any bike if they develop the skills, but you have your channel to consider and just one bike will never be enough to continue growing.
Hey thanks for checking out these awesome dual sport bikes with me today! If you saw anything in the video you'd like to know more about, here are some affiliate links for all my parts & gear!
(Click an affiliate link, make ANY purchase, & support the channel!)
KLR 650 Stuff
Camel ADV 1 Finger Clutch Mod: camel-adv.com/?ref=eOBjZXsn
Racks & Bags: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-pannier-racks-with-tusk-pilot-pannier-bags-and-bottle-holders-p?ref=1042&
Crash Bars
Uppers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-crash-bars-engine-guards-p?ref=1042&
Lowers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-lower-crash-bars-p?ref=1042&
Nilight Lights (not DOT approved): amzn.to/3XDFdmC
LED Brackets: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-bar-accessory-clamp-p?ref=1042&
KTM High Bend Bars: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042&
Fat Bar Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-universal-big-bar-clamp-kit-p?ref=1042&
Lexx Pipe (may not comply with local laws & regulations): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/lexx-mxe-slip-on-silencer-with-mid-pipe-p?ref=1042&
Tusk Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042&
Tail Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-dry-duffel-bag-p?ref=1042&
2018 Kawasaki KX450F Fender: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/acerbis-front-fender-p?ref=1042&
Drain Plug: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-low-profile-magnetic-drain-bolt-p?ref=1042&
XR650 Stuff
Carplay Unit: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-wireless-portable-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo?ref=pcoxoocl
Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-waypoint-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042&
14 Tooth Sprocket: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/primary-drive-front-sprocket-upgrade-p?ref=1042&
Large Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042&
Chub Bars (Moto Bend): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042&
Bar Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-universal-big-bar-clamp-kit-p?ref=1042&
Handguards: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-d-flex-pro-adventure-handguards-p?ref=1042&
Tusk LED Bulb (NOT DOT APPROVED): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-h4-led-bulb-p?ref=1042&
DR650 Stuff
Windshield & GPS Bar (1 1/8" Handlebars): amzn.to/3Tkd1WS
Windshield & GPS Bar (7/8 Handlebars): amzn.to/3z010yT
Carpuride W702 Pro Version: carpuride.com/products/carpuride-w702-pro-wireless-portable-upgraded-dual-bluetooth-waterproof-ip67-motorcycle-stereo-with-intercom-function-compass-barometer?ref=pcoxoocl
Large Tank Bag: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-olympus-tank-bag-p?ref=1042&
Tires: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/tires-and-wheels/tusk-dsport%C2%AE-adventure-tire-p?ref=1042&
Chub Bars (KTM Bend): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-chub-1-1-8%22-big-bar-p?ref=1042&
Rox Offset Risers: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/rox-speed-fx-pro-offset-elite-block-risers-p?ref=1042&
Handguards: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-d-flex-pro-adventure-handguards-p?ref=1042&
Seat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/seat-concepts-complete-seat-p?ref=1042&
Ultralight Battery: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-lithium-pro-battery-p?ref=1042&
14 Tooth Sprocket: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/primary-drive-front-sprocket-p?v=15214?ref=1042&
Linkage Guard: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-impact-universal-linkage-guard-p?ref=1042&
Tusk LED Bulb (NOT DOT APPROVED): www.rockymountainatvmc.com/parts/tusk-h4-led-bulb-p?ref=1042&
Riding Gear
ADV Helmet: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xpedition-adv-helmet-w-mips-p?ref=1042&
Xplorer Coat: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xplorer-adv-jacket-p?ref=1042&
Xplorer Pants: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-xplorer-adv-pant-p?ref=1042&
Gloves:
Boots: www.rockymountainatvmc.com/riding-gear/msr-adventure-boots-p?ref=1042&
I really like your style, Ben. It was nice seeing you review the great points of the KLR, just like the old days. You really get the KLR-the one-up and two-up comfort, the range, the looks, the reliability, the luggage capacity, and its ok off road ability. I also love the transmission and the fuel delivery. Really, only the weight gets me down so I don't ride it on trails I think I might fall down on. I am considering lowering it, though. I know, that's anathema to a trail rider but I do dirt and rocky roads, mostly, and I don't think it will negatively affect that riding much. Best wishes.
The klr content is what brought me here to begin with. I would love to see you get another one some day.
Same. And if one is having a TH-cam channel as a primary source of income, one should probably target a bigger audience.
There is an army of KLR nuts.
That being said, love the DR content but don’t watch all - when I see KLR? I click
Ymmv
I love my KLR650. But I agree life is too short to argue, enjoy life!
Nice overview. The wind protection is certainly what I missed most when I sold my KLR. That, and it’s such a relaxed riding position.
Thanks! Yeah, it certainly is!
This is basically the difference between an adventure bike and a dual sport. Love my klr650
Indeed, it is!
I put in progressive springs and I over extended the spacer by 1/4"
Feels great. $114 best mod I ever did! As always, just want more power!
Try a Gen 1 KLR some day!
Nice! I have owned all your bikes in your stable during my 50yrs of riding enduro's. With the exception of the T7. I recently spent some time on a Honda CRF450RL and within a short period of time I knew this is the bike I have been searching for. It is my unicorn. I will most always have a klr in the garage, but that Honda is something special.
If you only have one bike…and enjoy mild off-roading/backroads but almost never ride single track, dangerously technical trails, but would also hop on the thing and ride it across the country, there’s only one affordable choice for you. The KLR 650.
Hard to go wrong with any of these bikes. I've had a KLR, Versys 300x, Tenere, and others. I currently own a DR and the new Himalayan. All of these bikes were/are great for me except the Tenere (just not the bike for my riding style). I really liked the 300x, great wind protection. But low ground clearance that a bash plate helped remedy.
You gave good advice when you said go out and ride each one. What feels good to you is what counts. Get out and ride - so true!!!
One thing that doesn’t get mentioned often is 2-up. My wife preferred my klr650 over my T7, dr650, versys 650, and vstrom 650. My guess is because the seat was wide, there was good length between my backside and the back of the seat so she wasn’t cramped against me and the seat was flat and parallel to the ground so she wasn’t sliding forward into me like on the t7. Heck the only bike she liked more than the KLR was my victory cross country. It helps we are both smaller I guess so that won’t apply to everyone but whatever the reason is, she says it’s the most comfortable adv/dualsport bike for her so Kawasaki did something right getting passenger ergonomics right
Great info there, thank you! We never rode anything other than my KLR (and mostly sport bikes before then) but my wife also liked my KLR and it seemed to work well for us!
I’ve wondered about this a lot. That’s good to know.
Thanks for your input, I've often thought about trading my dr650 in on 800de vstrom. Just to ride my daughter more comfortable..
Because of you, TDubs kid and a couple others, I purchased my first street legal bike about 6 months ago - a 2024 TW200, which was intended to be a bike for me and the kids to rip around our yard and for me to run small errands around our semi-rural town.
I now find myself riding further away from my house than originally intended. I already have an urge for a larger bike, while keeping the TW of course. Looking at a KLR650s, Kawasaki Verseys or a Honda Transalp.
I’m really leaning towards the later two because I like the excitement of a dual cylinder but I keep coming back to the KLR because if it’s rock solid reputation.
I don’t plan on off-roading, other than on our property as I have a side x side and four wheeler for that hobby.
Decisions, decisions…
My gen 1 is 416 wet, but feels like 816 when picking it up or pushing it around in the garage. Still, there is something about the way she looks at me.
I's clear that you have a lot of love for the KLR and it looks like you have room...I think you should add another KLR to your collection!
All great reliable tried and true fun bikes! Nothing is perfect. All shining in different areas. Looking forward to seeing what time tells for the KOVE 450, 450 MT, and DRZ
4S! Safe riding!
Good review !
I've owned both an XR 650 and 3 Klr 650s. I currently own a gen 3 KLR. No doubt the XR is a better dirt bike. But as an ADV bike it falls way short. Of course you can add a bunch of mods, spend a bunch of dollars and make it better for traveling but I took the other fork in the road. I modified the KLR, to work better in the dirt because it's such a comfortable all day kind of ride. Mods include fork and shock upgrades as well as pipe, snorkel and ecu mods. Now it handles good, power delivery is better. It is still not as good off road as the XR or DR, but I can strap on enough camping gear for a two week tour to where ever, ride down unimproved dirt roads, ( heart in throat) and arrive at the camp site with beer and a cooler. Can't to that on either the XR or DR. Spend two weeks camping off of either of those and you'll be looking to take an add for sale out on Craigs List. Don't get me wrong I love to ride off road over rocks, sand, mud,v up crazy hills and scare myself while grinning all the while. But that's a job for my WR450, no way I'd want either the XR or DR for serious off road. Just sayin...
It’s crazy to me to see you add windscreen’s and try to make the DR and XR more comfortable for the road when you already had a KLR
He is trying for an all in one perfect bike and you won't get that from any bike. These bikes fit in between the goldwing and the dirt bike that have knobby tires. Each one leaning to one side or the other.
@ I’ve owned 2 Gen 1 KLRs 2 Gen 2 KLR’s a XR650L a DR650 and a V Strom 650 in search of the perfect low dollar ADV bike and there really is no such thing. Out of all them I think the closest to it was the Gen 1 KLR. Especially after I added the Waypoint Rally Fairing. The most fun was definitely the XR650 though. How Ben still has the stock tank on the XR is beyond me though lol. My next bike will be the Gen 3 KLR just for the sake of saying I had all 3 generations.
Great video, Anyone that has owned a KLR knows exactly what you're talking about. I bought my Gen. 1 2005 2 weeks before I did a Mexico trip down to Belize and back to Tampa round-trip solo On a learner's permit. 20 years later I would do it again in a heartbeat on a KLR!
Asa past gen3 klr I would totally recommend a klr gen1 or gen2. Ended up trading it for a souped up Himalayan 411 and totally enjoyed that bike. I was a new rider so didn't care about or really need the power. Just recently I traded in the 411 for a Bear 650 and I am totally enjoying the new bike. The gen3 klr is a fine bike but there is so much more out there now.
I bought my KLR as an all around bike- one I could ride anywhere at any time. I could mod it to my preference and enjoy the open road and the gravel road as well. After a while I found myself riding on the highway more that the gravel roads so I decided to get a luxury highway cruiser . Comfort and power over long distances. Now as I look at the KLR I look at is as a dirt bike. However, the KLR isn’t a dirt bike. So I’m thinking of getting a smaller ( lighter) dirt bike to fill that need. So as I still watch your channel the XR is probably where I’m heading. With my Goldwing for the highway and the XR for off-road I’ll have the best of both worlds. Maybe get a larger tank or a rear desert tank to provide the distance needed.
For the DR, instead of a rally tower, you could install the acerbis 6.6 gallon tank and a tall madstad screen. You’d not feel much at all top or bottom at speed. I’m currently using the 5.3 tank with a madstad. It feels like an ultralight ADV the way it’s currently setup. 2022 dr650”
Hello Ben from your neighbor state!!! I like the point you brought up about the klr and weight. After owning an 08 ktm xc300 and an 08 wr250r (still have the wr) along with my klr, I actually prefer the klr along with all of the mods I've done. The klr seems more planted to me even offroad, and i can actually manage the weight pretty well. Ride safe, and stay swanky!!
Great video
Thanks
Ben
The XR looks like it has a Pope Hat!
"Hey hey, it's da Pope!"
Bob and Tom ruined me in the 90's
I did the dark smoke screen last year after seeing yours on your old bike and man is that boy dark! It makes the night commutes sketchy, especially since I’ve luckily dodged two deer narrowly
The IMS 4 gallon tank is the best thing I ever did for my XR650L
I prefer my KLR 650 now that I'm getting older. Just cruising keeping it slow.
" it's not the bike, it's the rider" basically anyone can be happy with any bike if they develop the skills, but you have your channel to consider and just one bike will never be enough to continue growing.
I get what you are saying, but I think that's an oversimplified view.
You should get an xt250. Highly recommend if you enjoy the tw200
I am a bit sad I didn't go with a beautiful Gen2 Yellow/Orange one I was drawn to, but then the Himalayan 450 arrived at a great price. The F800gs was also a strong contender, but good ones sold quick.
However, I did keep my KLX400r for the bush, which I have upgrade plans for, suspension, tank, seat having already done most of the minor running gear. Love it's lowdown grunt & get up n go.
Cheers from Downunder, stay safe.
When you add a luggage rack to your XR, you will notice the additional weight fairly quickly. I have the Tusk pannier rack (with top rack and sub-frame supports) and the whole kit is fairly hefty. It is solid and crazy strong - but hefty. The rack does provide excellent lift-handles to help pick the bike up.
However, for me, the single most important advantage I have with the pannier rack system is the Rotopax fuel cell mounting system I fabricated. I now have a 1gal rotopax cell on each side of my bike (so 2 gallons) plus the 4.7gal Clarke main tank for a total of 6.7 gallons. I haven't tested the range, but it is confidence inspiring when I've wanted to explore a bit more. With a 14T front sprocket and my personal heft, fuel economy is not maximized so I had to create a solution.
Put 30k miles on a 2nd gen klr, many adventures. Switched to an xr650l, never going back. KLR should be a twin cylinder bike.
You won't get the best of both worlds from any one bike. The KLR has the looks of off road with limited abilities in that arena and not quit the Goldwing of the road either. The XR is not a pure breed dirt bike but does well enough in what I call the mid range of off roading and is just enough on the road to get you to your off road adventure. You have to pick your bike with those in mind and what they are better suited for, either more road worthy or off roading. They have their place in the market.
If you liked the wind protection of the gen 3, you would have loved the vstream windshield. Best 100 bucks I ever spent. I was able to move the mounts back to the low setting, and can ride 55 without my helmet face shield down. Now I can hear my earbuds.
Im from back in the day when the seats were below the tank, and I really hate the feel of sitting on a level rail.
I think the problem is the grass is always greener and everything is a compromise so you have to decide what works best for you. Its really hard. I keep going back snd forth from adventure bikes to dual sports because i like the aspects of both. Probably the best bike for me is my T7 i currently have but thst foesnt stop me from lusting for other bikes. Once this small adv segment really gets going I can see leaving thr T7 for something a little less heavy and less powerful so that when im alone i dont have to worry about having issues with a big heavy bike. The dr and xr are definitely unicorns in that respect. Good power and good offroad ability. I do miss my dr650. I think a good modern alternative is the Himalayan 450. If you take off all of the extras it comes with (crash bars, center stand, etc) its getting close to 400lbs which i think is roughly the sweet spot for a smaller adv with 40-50hp. Im still hoping for a mini tenere, maybe 500cc single cylinder.
Yeah, there's always give and take when it comes to switching any bike, but especially from dual sport to adv. As nice as one is for one reason, the other is just as nice for another haha. The new lightweight ADVs may help with some of that though!
This is me in a nutshell. I’m always wanting to try the bike that’s not in my carport! I want to look at the T7, vstrom 800, etc…. I told my stepson that is the biggest indicator of bike addiction.
The only problem with the klr650 is its so under sprung for the weight.. but then again so are all the Japanese dual sports and adventure bikes
I regret not buying a KLR as my first bike. Love my bike, but would love it more if i was able to do light off-road.
I think the decision on the KLR vs the 650 dual sports is all about the riding you intend to do and enjoy. Kawasaki may call the KLR a dual sport, but I think it is really an adventure bike. It is better at eating highway miles and is great on dirt/gravel roads. But, on the single tracks you enjoy it is not so great. (I should have waited until the end to make this comment.)
Haha, sounds like we're in agreement!
Guess you completely summed it all up in this video in regards to which bike a person should choose when considering one for their personal riding preferences. FYI, I would be happy to fly up and drive one home for safe keeping for you if you need to make some extra space in your garage for another project. I already have my own 650L but like jewelry to women, men can never have enough motorcycles, right?
Good morning from Maine 🌲
Top of the morning!
Love my 2008 klr650, just wish they had a 6th gear.. and was more highway friendly.
I just graduated up to a ‘24 KLR from a CT125 and a Suzuki RV200. I am loving my KLR experience so far. I do hate perceivable oil loss on any four stroke machine, but I knew about that issue entering into the KLR. Just wondering, do the DR’s and XR’s have the same issue? I do know every engine burns oil, but to what extent I guess is the question.
I think the first thing a person needs to consider is their first priority. You only have 1-1.2 hours drive to get to your playground (s) … me I travel out of Florida and my playground starts in Wyoming/Montana . Can you imagine taking your XR (as you have it built) vs. the KLR out for 2-3 months of travel?
My biggest wish is 6th gear and tubeless tires …
When you bought all these other bike i said, Now we watch a guy turnhis dr into a klr. and here we are lol.
I hope you got that hat as part of their free deal
After riding a carburetor on the gen 2 then going to the Yamaha super tenere fuel injected bike I ride today it would be hard for me to go to a carburetor bike on a motorcycle. I know my bike is 600lbs and I give up so much . I am currently looking for something else with half the weight.
I have an '01 KLR and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
i live in indiana, the good places to go are all at least 2 hours so for me the klr 650 just makes the most sense
Agreed, if you're going to be on the road, why not enjoy it?!
I can’t not have a KLR. It’s comfort, the huge fuel range and ability to hit some dirt anywhere is too good. I keep a 500 EXC for when I need to hit some jumps, do long wheelies, and go on deep singletrack.
I'll sell ya mine. Many of the same things you had on it with just over 2k on it. 2023. Grey
ill trade you my gen3 for your DR
Get a Gen1 KLR
Someday!!!
" it's not the bike, it's the rider" basically anyone can be happy with any bike if they develop the skills, but you have your channel to consider and just one bike will never be enough to continue growing.